Pinoys deem studying overseas as investment

CEBU, Philippines — There is a rising trend of Filipinos wanting to study abroad as a way to invest for education. 

Romina Puno, education outreach coordinator at UKEAS (United Kingdom Education Advisory Service) Philippines, a global educational consultancy, said that Filipinos' intend to study abroad as part of investing for education.

"Studying abroad is an investment. It's looking for opportunities abroad," she said in an interview yesterday.

She added the rising number of Filipinos seeking to pursue post graduate education is also driven by the rising middle class in the Philippines and the need for professional growth.

She said about 60 percent of Filipinos study abroad for post graduate courses. While 40 percent go abroad to have their undergraduate education in other countries. 

UKEAS announced it is holding the Study World Education Fair in Cebu City for the first time on Oct. 16 in Harolds Hotel. 

The fair's expansion in Cebu comes amid an increasing evolution of education fair that has seen diplomats, artists, entrepreneurs and celebrities speak to inspire Filipinos to expand their world view by studying abroad.

Study World is a free fair that offers a unique chance for attendees to meet admissions and recruitment managers from over 20-top notch universities across the globe as well as participate in educational seminars by visiting speakers. 

The Cebu education fair will host schools from the US, UK, Ireland, Spain, Singapore, Canada, Australia and more.

Puno said the fair is expecting around 200 attendees from Cebu. 

The fair seeks to help aspiring students to study abroad or working professionals that are interested in studying overseas for a degree or career advancement.

UKEAS corporate strategy manager Chris Cazares said the education fair has always wanted to expand in Cebu, where it considers a viable market.

Puno also noted the second Study World in Cebu City is tentatively scheduled to take place in January next year. 

She said the educational consultancy is looking to establish an office in Cebu City soon.

UKEAS provides free counseling, application and support services for students who want to study abroad.

It is compensated by its educational institution partners across the globe.

In Asia, UKEAS is present in the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar, China and Taiwan.

It is also present in Nigeria, Ghana and United Kingdom. (FREEMAN)